Masala Chai is a mixed drink originally from the Asian area. The Indian word “Masala” can be roughly translated with “spice mixture”, with the “chai” being derived from the Chinese word “Chá” for tea. Masala Chai consists of black tea, sugar or honey, milk and a special spice mixture and is particularly popular because of its stimulating effect. Chai is a good alternative for latte macchiato lovers.
Masala Chai – a special kind of tea drink
Masala Chai is the national drink in India and is also celebrating its trendy in Europe as a trend drink. In addition to self -preparation, the acquisition of tea bags in tea shops and coffee shops, Masala Chai can now also be obtained as a capsule for the Nespresso coffee machines.
Masala Chai – a drink with many recipes
The classic ingredients for the Masala Chai include a strong black tea, which is often brewed from a strong assam, as well as milk, sugar or other sweeteners. However, the special aroma is awarded to the Masala Chai by the spice mix that varies from family to family in India. Traditional spices for the Masala Chai are cloves, cardamom, anise, fennel seeds, cinnamon and ginger that can be found in almost every recipe variation. The spices used, especially as a stimulating mode of action, develop. Cardamom in particular should have a positive effect on life energy and digestion after teaching.
The fact that almost every family has handed over their own recipe for the Masala Chai, peppercorns, Indian laurel leaves and nutmeg can also be considered as seasoning ingredients. Instead of sugar, honey is also used as a sweetener depending on the region and taste.
Traditional preparation of the Masala Chai
For the preparation of a Masala chai, the water is boiled with the milk, sugar or honey and spices. The tea leaves are only added after a cooking time of about a minute. After a drawing time of at least ten minutes, the Masala Chai is piled up and served through a sieve. Here is the recipe:
3/4 cup of water
2-4 green cardamom capsules to smash (comes from the ginger family family)
1-2 thin slices of fresh ginger
4 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
A pinch of anis
3/4 cup of milk
1 teaspoon black tea leaves
Sugar or honey to sweeten
However, before the Masala Chai is drunk in India, he receives its typical creamy consistency by creating several times with a trowel and the foaming. As a rule, you let it pull around 5 minutes in total. Furthermore, tea is generally poured in India from the cup to the saucer to cool and drink the drink. Tip for summer: prepare in large quantities and enjoy it cold.